Class 12 Political Science - PUNJAB
Crisis of Democratic Order
The chapter 'Crisis of Democratic Order' in PSEB Class 12 Political Science explores one of the most turbulent periods in independent India's history: the Emergency declared in 1975. It examines the economic background, political conflicts between the judiciary and the executive, the declaration of internal emergency, its widespread impacts on civil liberties, and the eventual restoration of democratic processes through the 1977 elections. For board exams, this chapter is crucial as it tests students' understanding of the resilience of Indian democracy, constitutional provisions regarding emergency, and major political shifts of the 1970s.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Internal Emergency (1975)
Declared on June 25, 1975, by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on the grounds of 'internal disturbance', suspending fundamental rights and curtailing press freedom.
Shah Commission
A commission appointed by the Janata Party government in 1977 to inquire into the allegations of abuse of authority, malpractices, and political excesses committed during the Emergency.
JP Movement / Total Revolution
A student-led protest in Bihar in 1974, later led by Jayaprakash Narayan, calling for 'Total Revolution' against corruption, rising prices, and unemployment.
42nd Constitutional Amendment
Passed by the Congress government during the Emergency, it brought sweeping changes to the Constitution, including changes to the preamble and extension of the Lok Sabha term.
Janta Party Government (1977)
The first non-Congress government at the Centre, formed after the defeat of the Congress party in the 1977 Lok Sabha elections following the lifting of the Emergency.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) Class 12 Political Science exam, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions frequently include very short-answer questions (1 mark), short-answer questions (3-4 marks), and long-answer essay-type questions (6 marks) focusing on the causes of the Emergency, its consequences, and lessons learned for Indian democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Emergency declared in 1975?
It was declared citing 'internal disturbances', but immediate triggers included the Allahabad High Court judgment invalidating Indira Gandhi's election, nationwide strikes, and the growing JP Movement demanding her resignation.
What were the major consequences of the Emergency?
Consequences included suspension of fundamental rights, censorship of the press, arrest of opposition leaders, forced sterilizations under family planning, and centralized executive power.
Why is the 1977 election considered a turning point in Indian politics?
It resulted in the defeat of the Indian National Congress for the first time at the national level and the formation of the first non-Congress coalition government under the Janata Party.
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